Program Manager - AI for Business (BUAI)

The Department of Data Sciences and Operations (DSO) at the USC Marshall School of Business is seeking a highly motivated Program Manager to lead and expand co-curricular programming within the AI for Business (BUAI) Program Administration, a fully gift-funded initiative for five years. DSO equips students with quantitative and analytical skills essential for success in today's data-driven business environment. The department's over 50 faculty members specialize in information systems, operations management, and statistics, offering courses that cover emerging technologies, digital transformation, and data analytics.

The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence for Business (BUAI) is a joint undergraduate degree program offered by the USC Marshall School of Business and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Launched in Fall 2023, this innovative program combines business education with AI-focused engineering coursework to prepare students for leadership roles in the tech-driven business landscape. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes core business disciplines such as accounting, finance, marketing, and strategy, alongside AI-related subjects like machine learning, human interaction, and robotics. The program also emphasizes integrative courses that provide a larger context for making business decisions in the AI age, covering topics like digital transformation, AI and smart contracts, and technology strategy. Graduates of the BUAI program are equipped to leverage AI within organizations, conceptualize new AI-driven products and services, and understand the ethical considerations associated with AI technologies.

Position Information

The Program Manager will support the AI for Business (BUAI) Program, overseeing and expanding co-curricular programs focused on AI, data science, and technology career development, providing students with hands-on career advisement and leadership training. This role will work closely with faculty, corporate partners, and alumni to enhance student placement in competitive AI and data-centric roles across industries, including data science, AI program management, and technical consulting. Additionally, the incumbent will develop and coordinate career programming, such as skill-building workshops, career treks, networking events, and industry collaborations to ensure students are well-prepared for their careers. The Program Manager will also lead outreach efforts, strengthening partnerships between students, faculty, and employers in the AI and data science space. This position is essential to strengthening USC Marshall’s commitment to bridging AI education with industry needs and positioning students for long-term success in the evolving tech landscape.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Understand the AI and Tech Landscape – Stay informed on trends in AI, machine learning, data science, and tech hiring to ensure students are prepared for evolving industry demands.
• Develop and Maintain Industry Partnerships – Build and strengthen relationships with corporate partners, recruiters, and alumni to expand internship opportunities and full-time job placements.
• Source Real-World Projects for Students – Collaborate with industry leaders to bring real business projects into the classroom, providing students with hands-on experience before graduation.
• Career Coaching and Job Readiness – Guide students in identifying career paths, preparing applications, managing deadlines, and developing key skills needed to secure jobs in AI and tech.
• Organize Career Preparation Programs – Plan and execute skill-building workshops, career treks, networking events, and industry panels to enhance career placement outcomes.
• Collaborate with Faculty and Student Organizations – Work closely with academic leadership, student clubs, and career services to align career programming with industry needs and student goals.
• Represent BUAI at Conferences and Industry Events – Travel locally and nationally to promote the program, develop new partnerships, and stay connected with industry leaders.
• Track and Assess Career Outcomes – Monitor student job placement metrics, internship success, and industry engagement to continuously improve career programming and employer relationships.
• Enhance BUAI’s Industry Presence – Act as a key ambassador for BUAI, ensuring the program is recognized as a leading source of top AI and data science talent.
• Support Student and Employer Recruiting Efforts – Assist in attracting high-caliber students to BUAI and work with companies to facilitate on-campus recruiting, job postings, and employer engagement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Five years of experience in a tech-related field – Strong background in AI, data science, machine learning, software engineering, or